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      ‘Milan’s maternity policy is a big thing. It gives you an opportunity to not have to make a big sacrifice’

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      NADIA NADIM hopes AC Milan’s move to guarantee contract renewals for players who become pregnant can be adopted by other elite clubs.The Milan forward, who is a qualified doctor, would also like to see top sides help female footballers to access egg freezing services.Nadia Nadim says AC Milan’s maternity policy is a positive move for female players hoping to have childrenCredit: GettyPlayers who get pregnant in the final year of their deals are guaranteed automatic contract renewalsCredit: GettyNadim, whose team take on Inter in the Milan derby today, has been reflecting on her club’s new maternity policy.In August AC Milan announced it would guarantee the renewal of contracts for its female players who get pregnant in the final year of their deals.The Italian top-flight giants now provide an automatic renewal with a one-year extension on the same economic terms on a player’s existing contract.  The decision saw them become the first club in Europe to introduce this maternity policy. Read More Football StoriesIt includes assistance with childcare, travel and accommodation expenses for female players’ children. The club says players who are expectant mums will also be provided with access to expert advice on physiotherapy and nutritional issues.Nadim, who joined Milan this January, said: “For female athletes it’s sometimes hard to find the right balance between wanting to compete at the highest level, or to have a family.”As athletes, we work hard, but we sacrifice even more. At a certain point it’s between choosing. Most read in Football”A lot of us might stop (our playing careers) at, say, 37 and for some of it gets really hard to get pregnant.”And I know this as a doctor, it doesn’t become easier, it becomes harder.”You have female players who reach the end of their careers and think, ‘holy s**t, I really want to start a family, but right now, it seems really hard’.”But AC Milan’s policy is a big thing.”Having this opportunity (of a guaranteed contract renewal) is brilliant, and I really hope that more clubs are going to follow.”Before joining Milan, Nadim spent two years playing for US top-flight women’s side Racing Louisville following spells at Manchester City and Paris Saint-Germain from 2018 to 2021.In 2021 the club became the first National Women’s Soccer League outfit to help players to access fertility preservation services including egg freezing and embryo freezing.Their initiative was carried out in collaboration with the Kentucky Fertility Institute.And it is one Nadim hopes to see replicated by other top tier football sides.The Milan forward adds: “Being able to freeze your eggs gives you a totally different pathway. “It’s something that European clubs could consider adopting.”Nadim, who was born in Herat in Afghanistan, fled to Denmark with her family in 2000, when they discovered the Taliban had executed her father.The 105-capped Denmark international, began playing football at the age of 12 before starting her senior playing career in 2006 with Danish side IK Skovbakken (now known as VSK Aarhus).In January 2022, Nadim, who was part of the Denmark team that reached the 2017 Women’s Euros finals, became a fully-qualified doctor specialising in reconstructive surgery.And the forward, who wrote a PhD on incontinence in elite women players, hopes to see more research done on the healthcare for female athletes.Nadim said: “Seeing bigger clubs trying to treat female players as individuals who have different needs, and trying to build the structure around them is pretty cool.”That’s where we should be heading to”.On the pitch Nadim hopes to help her side secure their first win in Italy’s women’s top-flight this season. Their opening two games ended as narrow 1-0 and 2-1 losses to Como and Fiorentina.Nadim and her AC Milan team-mates hope to beat Inter in a Serie A Women’ s derby duel todayCredit: GettyShe adds: “Milan are trying to build, we want to build, and it’s enjoyable. READ MORE SUN STORIES”We’ve got a new coach and a new way we want to play.”Our ambitions are to dominate in games and, step-by-step, become a great team and compete for championships.” More

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      Liverpool ready to battle Man Utd in transfer race for Fulham’s Antonee Robinson and could make January move

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      LIVERPOOL will battle Manchester United in the heavyweight race for Fulham left-back Antonee Robinson.Red Devils have USA star Robinson on their wishlist to fill a problem position in Erik ten Hag’s squad — possibly as early as January.Antonee Robinson is a target for Liverpool and Man UtdBut Kop spies are also on the trail of the one-time Everton prospect  who would be immediate cover and a possible long-term replacement for Andy Robertson.Anfield chiefs have looked at left-backs around the globe but may find the solution here in the Premier League.Robinson, 27, is only four years younger than Robertson and one of the few experienced men who can be mentioned in the same breath as the Scot.One snag for Robinson might be a lack of playing time at Liverpool while United have a greater need for a starter now.Most read in FootballFulham signed Ryan Sessegnon back from Tottenham in the summer and their old boy is looking good so far.Sessegnon, 24, can play a couple of roles but is ideally an attacking left-back.Man Utd ratings vs Crystal Palace as Andre Onana saves the day for wasteful Red DevilsMANCHESTER UNITED were held to a frustrating 0-0 draw at Crystal Palace as they missed a flurry of first-half chances.Erik ten Hag shocked fans this afternoon when he left Marcus Rashford out of his starting XI.And the Red Devils failed to make a breakthrough – dropping two more points.Here, SunSport’s Jordan Davies delivers his Man Utd player ratings…ANDRE ONANA – 8/10Had one save to make just before half time – a comfortable one from Eberechi Eze.And then, a worldie double save to keep out Eddie Nketiah and Ismaila Sarr, rivalling the one made by Arsenal’s David Raya in mid-week.NOUSSAIR MAZRAOUI – 7One of United’s most consistent performers who continues to impress week by week. Strong in the tackle and great positioning to stop Palace counters.MATTHIJS DE LIGT – 7Lost an early duel with Jean-Philippe Mateta which put the Frenchman in but it was pulled back for a foul. Blamed his boots and changed them moments later.Unlucky with a brilliant header from a corner that was somehow kept out by Dean Henderson and made a superb last-ditch tackle to stop Eze in the second half.LISANDRO MARTINEZ – 6Another player who came close to scoring but for the brilliance of Henderson, swivelling and turning in the six-yard box with a stabbed effort.Lucky not to be sent off for a ridiculous two-footed lunge that narrowly avoided contact with Daichi Kamada.DIOGO DALOT – 7Played as a left winger for most of the first half, such was United’s dominance.Brilliant pick out only for Garnacho to hit the crossbar.KOBBIE MAINOO – 7Covered ground well and linked defence with attack. Drifted forward more in the second half without seriously threatening.An insane Cruyff piece of skill in the second half was worth the admission fee alone.CHRISTIAN ERIKSEN – 6Kept things ticking over and picked some nice passes at times but his lack of pace and physicality was evident.BRUNO FERNANDES – 7Tenacious in ensuring Palace’s midfield could not get a foothold in the game and grazed the top of the bar with a volley into the ground just before the half hour mark.Was United’s most creative player on the ball and should have had one goal to his name at least.AMAD DIALLO – 6Showed glimpses with some darting runs but never possessing the intent and aggression to force anything meaningful from it.ALEJANDRO GARNACHO – 7Had a personal battle with Henderson, one that he ultimately lost.Early chance to show it was the right call to start ahead of Marcus Rashford squandered – put through by Zirkzee but 1v1 effort palmed away by Henderson.Smacked the bar in a similar position from Dalot’s through ball and came close to knocking one in from close range.JOSHUA ZIRKZEE – 6Linked up well with Garnacho, dropping deep and slipping the winger in that should have led to the opener. Headed wide from a Diallo corner just before the break.Rightly subbed off on the hour mark as his influence waned.SUBS:MARCUS RASHFORD (ZIRKZEE, 61) – 6Did very little to convince Erik Ten Hag to throw him back into the starting XI, but was barely given the service either.MANUEL UGARTE (ERIKSEN, 76) – 6United certainly appear calmer and more solid with him at the base of their midfield.RASMUS HOJLUND (DIALLO, 76) – 6Still getting minutes back into his legs after returning from injury, but this is one of his more forgettable cameos.Last year, we reported how Man City were looking at making a move for the £35million-rated player.Robinson joined the Cottages in 2020 for a fee of around £2million from Wigan.Most read in FootballHe has gone on to make 155 appearances for the club across five seasons, and 46 appearances for his country.Did Mazraoui Just Solve Man Utd’s Attacking Problems? | Tactics Exposed More

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      ‘Everyone wants us to disappear off the face of the earth,’ complains Pep Guardiola as he addresses Man City charges

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      PEP GUARDIOLA claims Manchester City’s enemies want the club wiped “off the face of the earth.”Football’s trial of the century began on Monday with an independent hearing into 115 charges alleging financial fair play rule breaches levelled at City by the Prem.Pep Guardiola has weighed in on Man City’s chargesCredit: GettyChampions City face relegation, points deductions or huge fines if found guilty.But, ahead of Sunday’s showdown with Arsenal, Guardiola weighed in on everyone’s thoughts on the case.He said: “Everyone expects us to be not just relegated, they want us to disappear off the face of the earth.“We have had many better days than our opponents. That’s why we win a lot. It’s not complicated.”READ MORE IN FOOTBALLCity deny all the charges and the hearing is expected to last two months.But, if boss Guardiola named the “enemies” he says want to make his club “disappear”, he might not look beyond Sunday’s opponents.City are understood to be convinced the Arsenal hierarchy led a Prem group who wanted to stop them playing in the Champions League in 2020 while they appealed a two-year ban from European football.Liverpool, Manchester United, Chelsea, Tottenham, Leicester, Newcastle, Wolves and Burnley were other clubs in what City saw as a ‘gang of nine’ after Uefa found them guilty of “serious breaches” of FFP rules between 2012 and 2016.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSBut the Court of Arbitration for Sport later overturned the ban after clearing City of disguising equity funds as sponsorship.In 2011, then Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger accused City of trying to bend rules over a £400m deal with Etihad Airways.What Arsenal MUST do to beat Man City – from David Raya’s secret weapon to escaping the rope-a-dopeWenger insisted: “It raises the real question about the credibility of financial fair play. “They give us the message that they can get around it by doing what they want.” More

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      Furious Man Utd boss Ten Hag tells Jamie Redknapp ‘as a person you’re not OK’ as he slams pundit’s Rashford speculation

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      ERIK TEN HAG hit out at “crazy” talk about a row between him and Marcus Rashford.Manchester United manager Ten Hag reacted to Sky Sports pundit Jamie Redknapp’s claims “there’s obviously something that’s happened” after Rashford was dropped for the draw at Crystal Palace — despite scoring three  in his two previous games.Erik ten Hag appeared to hit out at Jamie Redknapp in his post-match press conferenceCredit: RexRedknapp has speculated as to why Ten Hag dropped Marcus Rashford for the Crystal Palace clashCredit: GettyRashford was dropped to the bench for the goalless drawCredit: AFPETH said: “I heard already speculation from some pundits. That is crazy.“I would almost say that, as a person, you are not OK when you bring such speculation if you don’t know. This has nothing to do with it.“I’m very happy with Marcus, with everything.“With his defending part, offensive, he scores in this moment, he performs very good.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL“So there is nothing to do with it that he was on the bench, just rotation.“We have many games to cover. We have more than a starting 11 of players.“If the players perform, we will give them their chances.”Ten Hag had warned Rashford in the build-up to the clash with the Eagles at Selhurst Park that he needed to maintain the improvement in his off-field lifestyle if he wanted to put last season’s woes behind him.Most read in FootballMan Utd struggled to make things tick in front of goal, drawing 0-0 with PalaceCredit: PABEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSBut the United boss also praised the former England striker after he scored twice in the 7-0 midweek mauling of Barnsley in the League Cup.That did not stop the Dutchman from starting Joshua Zirkzee instead of the axed England international.’Obviously something that’s happened’ says Sky Sports pundit, 51, as Marcus Rashford left out of Man Utd starting XIMan Utd ratings vs Crystal Palace as Andre Onana saves the day for wasteful Red DevilsMANCHESTER UNITED were held to a frustrating 0-0 draw at Crystal Palace as they missed a flurry of first-half chances.Erik ten Hag shocked fans this afternoon when he left Marcus Rashford out of his starting XI.And the Red Devils failed to make a breakthrough – dropping two more points.Here, SunSport’s Jordan Davies delivers his Man Utd player ratings…ANDRE ONANA – 8/10Had one save to make just before half time – a comfortable one from Eberechi Eze.And then, a worldie double save to keep out Eddie Nketiah and Ismaila Sarr, rivalling the one made by Arsenal’s David Raya in mid-week.NOUSSAIR MAZRAOUI – 7One of United’s most consistent performers who continues to impress week by week. Strong in the tackle and great positioning to stop Palace counters.MATTHIJS DE LIGT – 7Lost an early duel with Jean-Philippe Mateta which put the Frenchman in but it was pulled back for a foul. Blamed his boots and changed them moments later.Unlucky with a brilliant header from a corner that was somehow kept out by Dean Henderson and made a superb last-ditch tackle to stop Eze in the second half.LISANDRO MARTINEZ – 6Another player who came close to scoring but for the brilliance of Henderson, swivelling and turning in the six-yard box with a stabbed effort.Lucky not to be sent off for a ridiculous two-footed lunge that narrowly avoided contact with Daichi Kamada.DIOGO DALOT – 7Played as a left winger for most of the first half, such was United’s dominance.Brilliant pick out only for Garnacho to hit the crossbar.KOBBIE MAINOO – 7Covered ground well and linked defence with attack. Drifted forward more in the second half without seriously threatening.An insane Cruyff piece of skill in the second half was worth the admission fee alone.CHRISTIAN ERIKSEN – 6Kept things ticking over and picked some nice passes at times but his lack of pace and physicality was evident.BRUNO FERNANDES – 7Tenacious in ensuring Palace’s midfield could not get a foothold in the game and grazed the top of the bar with a volley into the ground just before the half hour mark.Was United’s most creative player on the ball and should have had one goal to his name at least.AMAD DIALLO – 6Showed glimpses with some darting runs but never possessing the intent and aggression to force anything meaningful from it.ALEJANDRO GARNACHO – 7Had a personal battle with Henderson, one that he ultimately lost.Early chance to show it was the right call to start ahead of Marcus Rashford squandered – put through by Zirkzee but 1v1 effort palmed away by Henderson.Smacked the bar in a similar position from Dalot’s through ball and came close to knocking one in from close range.JOSHUA ZIRKZEE – 6Linked up well with Garnacho, dropping deep and slipping the winger in that should have led to the opener. Headed wide from a Diallo corner just before the break.Rightly subbed off on the hour mark as his influence waned.SUBS:MARCUS RASHFORD (ZIRKZEE, 61) – 6Did very little to convince Erik Ten Hag to throw him back into the starting XI, but was barely given the service either.MANUEL UGARTE (ERIKSEN, 76) – 6United certainly appear calmer and more solid with him at the base of their midfield.RASMUS HOJLUND (DIALLO, 76) – 6Still getting minutes back into his legs after returning from injury, but this is one of his more forgettable cameos.When news of Rashford’s shock omission broke, Redknapp said: “It feels like something untoward has gone on. You don’t drop a player that’s scored two in midweek and one against Southampton. It feels like something has happened this week.”Ten Hag was left to rue missed chances in the first half.And to thank goalkeeper Andre Onana for making a brilliant double save in the second period from Eddie Nketiah and Ismaila Sarr to stop Palace taking all three points.Ten Hag, whose side sit 11th in the table with just seven points from five games, said: “In and out of possession we played a really good game.“The only thing I can criticise is we were not clinical enough in the box, not decisive enough.“We should have scored but we let them stay alive in the first half.“Last week Onana was very important by saving a penalty against Southampton.“That double save was brilliant, it was class.”What was not class was the two-footed jumping challenge by United defender Lisandro Martinez on Palace midfielder Daichi Kamada in the second half.Crystal Palace boss Oliver Glasner said: “For me it was a really heavy tackle.“Fortunately he touched the ball and not the shin of the player. He could break his leg.READ MORE SUN STORIES“The referee decided no red card. I don’t want to complain about the referee’s decision.“We made many more wrong decisions than the referee.”Rashford was brought off the bench in the second halfCredit: GettyThe forward struggled to have much of an impact during his cameoUnited weren’t particularly potent without Rashford either More

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      Fans praise Sky Sports for getting Phil Jones in studio for Man Utd clash as they say ‘he’s a really interesting guy’

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      FANS praised Sky Sports for having Phil Jones in the studio for Manchester United’s 0-0 draw at Crystal Palace.The Red Devils travelled to Selhurst Park on Saturday hoping for three wins on the bounce.Fans praised Sky Sports as Phil Jones gave his thoughts on Man Utd’s draw with Crystal PalaceJones retired this summer after 229 games in 12 seasons for the Red DevilsCredit: GettyThere was already a major talking point before kick-off when Marcus Rashford was left out of the starting XI.But, after netting 10 goals in their previous two matches, United were unable to find a way past Palace in south London.Despite the result, Red Devils fans were still left smiling after a former favourite appeared on TV.Ex-England centre-back Jones was in the Sky Sports studio to deliver his views on United’s performance.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe 32-year-old joined the Red Devils from Blackburn for £16.5million in 2011 and was hailed by Sir Alex Ferguson as a future club captain.Jones ended up spending 12 years at Old Trafford as he won a Premier League, FA Cup and Europa League.But his career was blighted by numerous injury setbacks before he was released last year.Jones failed to find a new club and retired in August after just 229 appearances, plus a further 27 for the Three Lions.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSHe is now working as a coach with United’s academy.And earlier this month Jones exclusively opened up to SunSport over his mental health trauma caused by vile trolls on social media.’Man Utd have wrong bald Dutch manager’ – how Slot schooled Ten Hag at Old TraffordMan Utd ratings vs Crystal Palace as Andre Onana saves the day for wasteful Red DevilsMANCHESTER UNITED were held to a frustrating 0-0 draw at Crystal Palace as they missed a flurry of first-half chances.Erik ten Hag shocked fans this afternoon when he left Marcus Rashford out of his starting XI.And the Red Devils failed to make a breakthrough – dropping two more points.Here, SunSport’s Jordan Davies delivers his Man Utd player ratings…ANDRE ONANA – 8/10Had one save to make just before half time – a comfortable one from Eberechi Eze.And then, a worldie double save to keep out Eddie Nketiah and Ismaila Sarr, rivalling the one made by Arsenal’s David Raya in mid-week.NOUSSAIR MAZRAOUI – 7One of United’s most consistent performers who continues to impress week by week. Strong in the tackle and great positioning to stop Palace counters.MATTHIJS DE LIGT – 7Lost an early duel with Jean-Philippe Mateta which put the Frenchman in but it was pulled back for a foul. Blamed his boots and changed them moments later.Unlucky with a brilliant header from a corner that was somehow kept out by Dean Henderson and made a superb last-ditch tackle to stop Eze in the second half.LISANDRO MARTINEZ – 6Another player who came close to scoring but for the brilliance of Henderson, swivelling and turning in the six-yard box with a stabbed effort.Lucky not to be sent off for a ridiculous two-footed lunge that narrowly avoided contact with Daichi Kamada.DIOGO DALOT – 7Played as a left winger for most of the first half, such was United’s dominance.Brilliant pick out only for Garnacho to hit the crossbar.KOBBIE MAINOO – 7Covered ground well and linked defence with attack. Drifted forward more in the second half without seriously threatening.An insane Cruyff piece of skill in the second half was worth the admission fee alone.CHRISTIAN ERIKSEN – 6Kept things ticking over and picked some nice passes at times but his lack of pace and physicality was evident.BRUNO FERNANDES – 7Tenacious in ensuring Palace’s midfield could not get a foothold in the game and grazed the top of the bar with a volley into the ground just before the half hour mark.Was United’s most creative player on the ball and should have had one goal to his name at least.AMAD DIALLO – 6Showed glimpses with some darting runs but never possessing the intent and aggression to force anything meaningful from it.ALEJANDRO GARNACHO – 7Had a personal battle with Henderson, one that he ultimately lost.Early chance to show it was the right call to start ahead of Marcus Rashford squandered – put through by Zirkzee but 1v1 effort palmed away by Henderson.Smacked the bar in a similar position from Dalot’s through ball and came close to knocking one in from close range.JOSHUA ZIRKZEE – 6Linked up well with Garnacho, dropping deep and slipping the winger in that should have led to the opener. Headed wide from a Diallo corner just before the break.Rightly subbed off on the hour mark as his influence waned.SUBS:MARCUS RASHFORD (ZIRKZEE, 61) – 6Did very little to convince Erik Ten Hag to throw him back into the starting XI, but was barely given the service either.MANUEL UGARTE (ERIKSEN, 76) – 6United certainly appear calmer and more solid with him at the base of their midfield.RASMUS HOJLUND (DIALLO, 76) – 6Still getting minutes back into his legs after returning from injury, but this is one of his more forgettable cameos.However, fans were loving his latest Sky Sports appearance as Jones gave some fascinating insights into United’s stalemate at Palace.One of Jones’ observations went down particularly well as he analysed United’s set-up.He said: “You can see Dalot coming on the inside in the no.6 and controlling the game from there“United have been really good in possession and created a lot of chances.“With Dalot coming inside, they’re creating overloads in midfield and causing Palace problems.”And reacting to Jones, one supporter said: “Well done Sky Sports for getting Jones as a pundit. He’s a really interesting guy to watch and listen to.”Another declared: “Well chuffed to see Jones on Sky Sports. Great player who doesn’t get the respect he deserves for putting his body on the line time and again.”READ MORE SUN STORIESOne noted: “Phil Jones on Sky Sports doing well, come on.”Another added: “Phil (GOAT) Jones on Sky Sports. Class!” More

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      Harry Redknapp: Arsenal will be Prem title favourites if they beat Man City – Arteta should follow Inter’s example

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      THE KEY message for Arsenal today is a simple one:  Don’t be beaten!If Mikel Arteta’s boys win against Manchester City, they will be Prem title favourites in many people’s books.Mikel Arteta would turn Arsenal into title favourites if he beats Manchester CityCredit: RexHarry Redknapp believes Arsenal need to learn from Inter Milan’s draw with Man CityCredit: GettyBut after three points at Tottenham and a point against Atalanta, a draw would make it a great week.I know some people say the Gunners not going for the jugular at the Etihad last season cost them the title as they fell two points short.But I still feel it was the defeat by Aston Villa a couple of weeks later that really did the damage.No one would be complaining about that draw at City had they put away their first-half chances against Villa.Read More on ArsenalIf Arsenal lose, a five-point gap will open up, though that’s not impossible to close — there will be plenty of time.But this is a massive game.It’s a huge blow for Arsenal to lose Martin Odegaard. He unlocks doors and can play killer passes.It looks like Kevin De Bruyne is out, too, but City have more strength in depth. Whoever comes in will be a world-class player — I’m not so sure Arsenal will cope as well in the absence of the brilliant Norwegian.Most read in FootballMikel Arteta leaves fans in shock as he speaks fluently in new language despite never having lived or worked in countryLet’s face it, KDB was missing for half of last season yet City still ended up as champions!Inter Milan did a good job against them in the Champions League this week — they were hard to break down.Maybe Arteta will try to do the same and hit City on the break.Arsenal’s defence looks strong, especially centre-backs William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhaes. But it’s a bit early to compare them to Tony Adams, Steve Bould and other great Arsenal defenders of the past. They haven’t won a league title.And not forgetting Martin Keown as well, George Graham had great options.Adams was an unbelievable leader and talker. They don’t make ’em like him and John Terry any more. Two of the great talkers and leaders.Haaland is a machine and scoring goals for fun again — but there was a bit of edge between him and Gabriel last time. That could kick off again.I first saw Tony play,  aged 14, at West Ham’s training ground.He bossed his team-mates around all the time: “Come in here, push in there.”I thought, “Who’s this kid?”. He was such a captain, such a leader.I’d put Terry in the same category, a real warrior centre-half who led his team to major trophies.The question today is, can the two Arsenal centre-backs cope with Erling Haaland, like they did last season?Haaland is a machine and scoring goals for fun again — but there was a bit of edge between him and Gabriel last time. That could kick off again.  Regardless, it would be good to see a better game than last time, which was a bit of a bore — ending 0-0.Let’s hope it lives up to its star billing — even though I’m predicting  a 1-1 draw. But Arteta would be delighted with that.RAYA REMINDED ME OF JAMODAVID RAYA’S double save against Atalanta was brilliant.It was key in that Champions League clash on Thursday and Arsenal have a star in Raya.Many say Gordon Banks denying Pele’s header at the 1970 World Cup is the greatest stop of all time but for me it is David James for my Portsmouth at Preston in the FA Cup fifth round in 2008.Jamo pulled off a miracle save to stop  a penalty and made two other key saves before we won 1-0 with a late goal before going on to win the famous old trophy.CLOUGHIE MY HAIROIT’S hard to believe it’s 20 years since Brian Clough died.He was just amazing. To win two European Cups with Forest is beyond belief.You could sit and listen to stories about Cloughie all night — and I heard a new one the other night from my old mate Kevin Bond.Cloughie came in for Kevin when he was at Manchester City and the clubs agreed a fee. Kevin    drove to Nottingham to do the deal, only to be told by the secretary: “Mr Clough is in his office, he’ll be out shortly.”Kev sat outside for a good hour before Cloughie appeared and barked: “First thing you need to do, young man, is get your bloody hair cut.”And then he walked off.Two hours later, Kevin was still there waiting, but Clough never returned.So Kevin drove back to Manchester and that was that!ROD COULD STRIKE OUTRODRI says players are close to going on strike.But that would be a disastrous move as it’d send an awful message to fans who pay their wages.Stars should be talking to clubs, who could   cut back on pre-season tours for a start.READ MORE SUN STORIESBut it’s all about money as flying off to the USA, Australia  and China is the worst  preparation for a season.We’d go to Devon to play the likes of Plymouth, Exeter and Torquay so — make no  mistake — it’s clubs putting the strain on the players. More

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      Andy Carroll ‘playing 5D chess’ as former England star steals show on debut after dropping down to fourth tier

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      ANDY CARROLL has taken his first steps in becoming a club legend for Bordeaux after a stunning debut.Carroll, 35, joined the iconic French team earlier this week – dropping down two divisions and taking a huge pay-cut to do so.Andy Carroll made his mark on his Bordeaux debutCredit: X / girondinsCarroll joined the fourth tier french side this weekCredit: AFPThe nine-time England international was playing in the French second division with Amiens but chose to jump ship to Bordeaux for a new challenge.Bordeaux are currently plying their trade in the FOURTH DIVISION of French football after being handed a double relegation in the wake of their bankruptcy.But Carroll chose to take his experience down to the non-league outfit and earn a reported “minimum wage of £2,100” as a new challenge in the twilight of his career.His vast experience of playing at the top level has already reared its head as he had a phenomenal debut, saving his side from an embarrassing defeat. READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe veteran turned it on as Bordeaux trailed to Chateaubriant 2-0 and were in dire need of some attacking impotence.The 72nd minute rolled around and Carroll got off the mark, a typically acrobatic finish that tucked into the bottom corner and sparked a comeback.Just two minutes before the final whistle and Carroll popped up again, this time leaping head and shoulders above everyone else at a corner-kick and nodding a bullet header into the top corner.The former Newcastle and Liverpool striker had single-handedly dragged his new club from the edge of defeat to leaving with a point.Most read in FootballCarroll kept his eyes on a looping deflection to ready himself for his first goalCredit: XHe acrobatically reached out to get on the end of the ballCredit: XHis effort nestled into the bottom cornerCredit: XCarroll leapt above the crowd to nod home the equaliser at a cornerCredit: XBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSFans are convinced that the towering centre-forward is beginning a journey to become a “club icon” at Bordeaux and can be the man to lead them back up the divisions.On social media, one supporter wrote: “He’s playing 5D chess and we have front row seats.”Where are they now: The unusual careers of former footballersWhile another added: “This is probably the perfect twilight gig. Relatively undemanding football, fantastic weather and so many fans ready to make you a cult hero”.A third posted: “Things we love to see!”And a fourth gushed: “This is the redemption story of the season”.Bordeaux are Carroll’s eighth club of his career which has seen him make over 400 appearances and score in excess of 100 goals.His journeyman-like career has included stints at Liverpool, Newcastle, Reading and West Ham.Carroll netted a headed effort to earn his side a point at the deathCredit: AFP More

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      Watch Andre Onana pull off incredible double save ‘better than David Raya’s’ as fans praise ‘world class’ Man Utd keeper

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      ANDRE ONANA has left Man Utd fans speechless with a remarkable double-save. The Red Devils stopper somehow kept the scores level during Saturday’s 0-0 draw with Crystal Palace. Andre Onana had to be at full stretch to save from Ismaila SarrCredit: AFPThe goalkeeper’s Utd teammates were quick to thank Onana for the double-topCredit: RexOnana was at full stretch to keep out a low drive from Eddie Nketiah just after the hour mark at Selhurst Park. The 28-year-old got down smartly to palm away the effort from the ex-Arsenal forward. But the ball rebounded nicely for substitute Ismaila Sarr, who looked certain to fire the Eagles into the lead.Onana had no time to get back to his feet after the initial save and had to think fast. READ MORE ON FOOTBALLHe instantly threw his body in Sarr’s direction, somehow keeping out the rebound and tipping the ball round the post.One fan gasped on X: “That is a world-class save,” as Onana was mobbed by his teammates. Another responded: “Onana, I was not familiar with your game.”Fans were quick to compare the save to David Raya’s incredible penalty save against Atalanta on Thursday.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSThe Arsenal goalkeeper made a “crazy” double stop to prevent Mateo Retegui in the Champions League. Another fan laughed: “Onana said DAVID RAYA COME OUTSIDE!!!!”What Arsenal MUST do to beat Man City – from David Raya’s secret weapon to escaping the rope-a-dopeWhile a second claimed: “That Onana double save was better than Raya’s!And another commented: “Raya who?! That double save from Onana is absolutely legendary!”Onana’s heroics helped secure a point for United, who dominated possession in South London but proved wasteful in front of goal. Marcus Rashford was left out by boss Erik ten Hag, with the Red Devils proving shot-shy in the first half. Onana’s opposite number Dean Henderson was in inspired form, making a string of key saves.And United could have been down to ten men after Lisandro Martinez’s “crazy” second-half tackle.The Argentine defender enraged Palace supporters and players with a two-footed lunge on Daichi Kamada.Man Utd ratings vs Crystal Palace as Andre Onana saves the day for wasteful Red DevilsMANCHESTER UNITED were held to a frustrating 0-0 draw at Crystal Palace as they missed a flurry of first-half chances.Erik ten Hag shocked fans this afternoon when he left Marcus Rashford out of his starting XI.And the Red Devils failed to make a breakthrough – dropping two more points.Here, SunSport’s Jordan Davies delivers his Man Utd player ratings…ANDRE ONANA – 8/10Had one save to make just before half time – a comfortable one from Eberechi Eze.And then, a worldie double save to keep out Eddie Nketiah and Ismaila Sarr, rivalling the one made by Arsenal’s David Raya in mid-week.NOUSSAIR MAZRAOUI – 7One of United’s most consistent performers who continues to impress week by week. Strong in the tackle and great positioning to stop Palace counters.MATTHIJS DE LIGT – 7Lost an early duel with Jean-Philippe Mateta which put the Frenchman in but it was pulled back for a foul. Blamed his boots and changed them moments later.Unlucky with a brilliant header from a corner that was somehow kept out by Dean Henderson and made a superb last-ditch tackle to stop Eze in the second half.LISANDRO MARTINEZ – 6Another player who came close to scoring but for the brilliance of Henderson, swivelling and turning in the six-yard box with a stabbed effort.Lucky not to be sent off for a ridiculous two-footed lunge that narrowly avoided contact with Daichi Kamada.DIOGO DALOT – 7Played as a left winger for most of the first half, such was United’s dominance.Brilliant pick out only for Garnacho to hit the crossbar.KOBBIE MAINOO – 7Covered ground well and linked defence with attack. Drifted forward more in the second half without seriously threatening.An insane Cruyff piece of skill in the second half was worth the admission fee alone.CHRISTIAN ERIKSEN – 6Kept things ticking over and picked some nice passes at times but his lack of pace and physicality was evident.BRUNO FERNANDES – 7Tenacious in ensuring Palace’s midfield could not get a foothold in the game and grazed the top of the bar with a volley into the ground just before the half hour mark.Was United’s most creative player on the ball and should have had one goal to his name at least.AMAD DIALLO – 6Showed glimpses with some darting runs but never possessing the intent and aggression to force anything meaningful from it.ALEJANDRO GARNACHO – 7Had a personal battle with Henderson, one that he ultimately lost.Early chance to show it was the right call to start ahead of Marcus Rashford squandered – put through by Zirkzee but 1v1 effort palmed away by Henderson.Smacked the bar in a similar position from Dalot’s through ball and came close to knocking one in from close range.JOSHUA ZIRKZEE – 6Linked up well with Garnacho, dropping deep and slipping the winger in that should have led to the opener. Headed wide from a Diallo corner just before the break.Rightly subbed off on the hour mark as his influence waned.SUBS:MARCUS RASHFORD (ZIRKZEE, 61) – 6Did very little to convince Erik Ten Hag to throw him back into the starting XI, but was barely given the service either.MANUEL UGARTE (ERIKSEN, 76) – 6United certainly appear calmer and more solid with him at the base of their midfield.RASMUS HOJLUND (DIALLO, 76) – 6Still getting minutes back into his legs after returning from injury, but this is one of his more forgettable cameos.Martinez was booked for the incident, avoiding a red as VAR deemed he had not “made contact” with the Eagles star. Following the game, Sky Sports pundit Jamie Redknapp was baffled by Martinez’s decision to leap into the tackle off the ground. Redknapp said: “I’d love to tell you [what he’s doing].READ MORE SUN STORIES”It was a tackle we saw many years ago. I don’t know what you think you’ll gain by jumping in with two feet.”If he lands on his foot, it’s a straight red. The only reason he doesn’t is because he misses the foot. More